Classic Macaroni Salad

Classic Macaroni Salad is a creamy, tangy, and satisfying side dish that’s a staple at barbecues, potlucks, and family gatherings. Featuring tender elbow macaroni, crisp vegetables, and a rich, flavorful dressing, this timeless recipe is loved by all and easy to prepare ahead of time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This macaroni salad is simple yet packed with flavor, making it a reliable crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to customize, quick to prepare, and holds up well when made in advance. The creamy dressing, crunchy vegetables, and soft pasta combine into a perfect balance of textures and tastes that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Elbow macaroni
• Mayonnaise
• Dijon mustard
• Apple cider vinegar
• Sugar
• Celery, finely diced
• Red bell pepper, diced
• Red onion, finely diced
• Carrots, shredded
• Hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• Salt and pepper
• Paprika (optional, for garnish)

Directions

this recipe

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth.
3. Add the cooled macaroni, celery, bell pepper, red onion, carrots, and chopped eggs to the bowl.
4. Toss everything together until well coated in the dressing.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Sprinkle with paprika if desired before serving.

Servings and timing

This Classic Macaroni Salad serves about 8-10 people as a side dish.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

• Use Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and mayo for a lighter dressing.
• Add diced pickles or relish for extra tang.
• Include cooked and diced bacon for a smoky flavor boost.
• Swap in green bell peppers or peas for added variety.
• Make it spicy with a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños.

Storage/reheating

Store the macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Macaroni salad is served cold, so reheating is not necessary. If the salad thickens after refrigeration, stir in a tablespoon or two of milk or extra mayo to loosen it up before serving.

FAQs

Can I make macaroni salad ahead of time?

Yes, macaroni salad is best when made a few hours or even a day in advance so the flavors can meld.

What type of mayonnaise should I use?

Full-fat mayonnaise provides the richest flavor, but you can use light mayo for a lower-calorie version.

How do I prevent the macaroni from becoming mushy?

Cook the pasta al dente and rinse it under cold water immediately after cooking to stop the process.

Can I freeze macaroni salad?

Freezing is not recommended as the creamy dressing can separate and the pasta may become mushy.

What vegetables can I add to macaroni salad?

Celery, bell peppers, carrots, onions, peas, and cucumbers are all great options.

How long can macaroni salad sit out at a party?

Macaroni salad can safely sit out for about 2 hours. After that, it should be refrigerated.

Can I make macaroni salad without eggs?

Yes, you can omit the eggs if you prefer or substitute with chickpeas for extra protein.

How can I make the dressing tangier?

Add a splash more vinegar or a teaspoon of pickle juice for extra tanginess.

What is the best pasta shape for macaroni salad?

Elbow macaroni is traditional, but small shells or ditalini pasta can also be used.

How can I make macaroni salad more colorful?

Use a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers, along with shredded carrots and fresh herbs.

Conclusion

Classic Macaroni Salad is a must-have recipe for any event where comfort food is welcomed. It’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with satisfying textures that bring people back for seconds. Easy to customize and even easier to love, this salad deserves a permanent spot in your recipe collection.

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